Steph Piper knows a thing or two about startup life. Creative technologist by trade, she’s incredibly passionate about helping the next generation of entrepreneurs succeed. As manager of the Library Makerspace at the University of Southern Queensland – Toowoomba, Steph is constantly creating, learning, and innovating. Outside of her role at the university, she stays busy running her own small business, Maker Queen.
With an insatiable thirst for learning, Steph’s passion lies in 3D printing, 3D modelling and teaching Arduino classes. With a background in biofabrication and 3D printing for medical grade implants, she understands the unique barriers and challenges that come with starting your own business.
We’re excited to have Steph as a guide and mentor for the Knoei Launchpad program. With her vast knowledge of startup life and creativity, her experience will be invaluable to the participants. Deeply rooted in the Toowoomba community, her connections and wisdom will provide crucial support to those on their entrepreneurial journey.
There’s a pressing need for women in regional communities to receive the help they need to ‘get started’ with their business ideas. Many regions lack the funding and resources that are critical to empowering young female founders.
“This is a huge area of need, and we have lots of problems to solve,” says Steph. “If we can equip our regional women with the skills to create their own financial independence while helping to respond to community needs, it’s a win-win.”
The Knoei Launchpad program centres around building and maintaining a strong network for women in their own communities, connecting them with others who understand startup life and have walked the path before them.
“Building a strong ecosystem for our young female founders is vital,” Steph agrees. “We need a place where we can turn for help, ideas, mentorship and build a circle of support, especially for those who are unable to join traditional co-working spaces.”
“I’ve noticed a consistent decline in support for new entrepreneurs eager to learn the necessary skills over the years. It’s disheartening to see the programs I once loved being discontinued. That’s why programs like Knoei Launchpad are so crucial; they provide the support and resources that young entrepreneurs need. Without opportunities like this to learn and grow, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Steph speaks from experience, having been involved in numerous initiatives that have profoundly shaped her deep understanding of startup life. “I was fortunate to be a part of the Startup Catalyst program, a fully sponsored trip to San Francisco to learn about the startup ecosystem there. I also received sponsorship to visit China, where I built connections with manufacturers. And a highlight, I took part in a startup weekend and won the chance to participate in the international finals in Bali, where we took home first prize and the chance to start a business bootcamp through OnRamp,” she recalls.
A passionate innovator, Steph believes that programs like Knoei Launchpad are essential for women wanting to start a business today.
“Even if you end up changing your business idea (which I did many times), the learning and connections you gain in programs like Launchpad are invaluable,” Steph says.
Steph Piper’s journey exemplifies how creativity, passion and community drive entrepreneurial success. With her expertise in technology and innovation, she is well equipped to guide the next generation of female founders through the Knoei Launchpad program. By fostering strong networks within the Toowoomba community and sharing her knowledge, Steph is breaking down barriers and empowering regional women to elevate their business ideas.
To find out more about the Knoei Launchpad program – click here
To learn more about Steph Piper, –click here and for information on her published book titled “Skill Seeker” click here
